Running head: ERIKSON SELF-STUDY

Erikson Self-Study
Taylor Lacy
Ivy Tech Community College

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Introduction
Erik Erikson created the theory of psychosocial development. He was a German
psychoanalyst that was heavily influenced by Sigmund Freud and his psychosexual
developmental theory. Although Freud and his theory heavily influenced him, Erik disagreed
with some of Freuds beliefs and created his theory to challenge them. He recognized the basics
of the Freudian theory but believed Freud misinterpreted some important milestones of human
development. Erik believed that humans developed throughout their life span, but Freud
believed that human beings personalities are shaped by he age of five. Like Freud, Erik believed
that people develop in stages. Erik developed eight psychosocial stages in which humans
develop in throughout their life span. Each of the stages presents the difficult social experiences
humans face as they develop through thinking, learning, and being adaptive individuals.
Eriksons theories are; Trust vs. Mistrust, Autonomy vs. Shame/ Doubt, Initiative vs. Guilt,
Industry vs. Inferiority, Identity vs. Role Confusion, Intimacy vs. Isolation, Generativity vs.
Stagnation, and Integrity vs. Despair. Erik believed that nature determines the sequence of each
of these stages. To overcome each of these stages an individuals personality must adapted and
evolve to the new situation. If this adaption or evolvement is not achieved then an individual
may not have completed this stage in life fully.
In this paper you will discover each stage of Eriksons psychosocial theory defined,
positive/ negative outcomes given, and examples from my personal life. In some of the earlier
stages I do not fully remember my personal experiences but thanks to some family and friends
they filled me in on some things in which I shared in this paper. In some of the later stages it was
much easier to remember and pull examples, but in the last few stages I had to make assumptions
as to where I hoped my life would be. The purpose of this paper is to show how Erik was correct
on his beliefs of human development.

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Stage 1- Trust vs. Mistrust

Stage one of Eriksons psychosocial stages is Trust vs. Mistrust. This stage takes place
from when an infant is born to when the infant is 18 months old, this is said to be the most
fundamental stage (McLeod, 2008). An infant is completely dependent on its parents; infants
blindly depend on their parents for food, affection, and caregiving. A child develops trust with
its parents based on dependability and quality of care given (McLeod, 2008). In other words, an
infant needs to feel like it is or will be taken care of at all times. An infant needs to know that
his/her caregiver will feed it, change it, hold it, and/ love it according to its needs. A positive
outcome of trust with an infant and his/her parents is that an infant will develop an attachment to
his/her parents and will learn to trust the environment around it. A negative outcome to infants
not being able to trust their parents is that this mistrust will carry on towards people in general,
their environments, and/or themselves as an individual. If an infant develops feelings of mistrust
towards its parents at such a young age it can spell disaster for the rest of its life. If new parents
do not know how to deal with a newborn they should seek out help so that the child or children
are given the proper care.
When I was younger I had mistrust with my mother. I was my fathers child. My mother
did not know how to take care of a newborn; she did not have any maternal instincts. My father
had to play the mother and father role. My mother was only good for buying clothes; she did not
know how to change a diaper, burp, feed, or take care of a child. Babies made my mother very
nervous; she felt like she was going to break me when she held me, and she felt that the less
contact she had with me the better off I would be. Before I was born my mother had never been
around infants or small children. I was basically the first one she had ever taken care of. When I
was born my mother only took two weeks of maternity leave, wheres my father took off more
time so he could take care of me. I was my mothers experiment baby and it did not go very well

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for her. From the time I was first born to the time I was almost one year old, my father was my
primary caregiver. When my mother would try and do things for me, like change my diaper I
would cry. When she would try and hold me, I would scream and cry until my father took me. I
liked my grandparents and my father more than my mother. It took me around the time of two to
finally get completely used to my mother holding me and feeding me. When it was time for my
mother to have my sister she did a much better job. She had been around me enough to know
how to take care of another child properly.

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Stage 2 Autonomy vs. Doubt

The second stage to Eriksons psychosocial stages is Autonomy vs. Doubt. This stage
picks up where the first stage lets off, occurring between 18 months and 3 years of age (McLeod,
2008). During this stage children start to learn to do things on their own. They are learning to
take their first steps, say their first words, and use the toilet. This is when children learn
confidence in themselves and their own abilities (McLeod, 2008). In this stage children learn
self- control over their body functions and over their desirers. They are also learning discipline.
It is highly important for children to gain a sense of personal control over themselves at this age.
It gives the children a sense of security and self-reliance. In this stage the children are also
learning the first steps towards potty training (McLeod, 2008). Parents should be encouraging
and patient during this important task and the children will develop autonomy. Other ways of
developing autonomy is when parents encourage their children to use imagination reassure them
when they are incorrect, and give them choices in daily activates. This helps children gain a
good sense of independence. Overprotective, impatient, and demanding parents cause a negative
outcome in this stage. When parents are overprotective of their childs acts of independence it
may cause self-doubt and shame. In this kind of situation, children will over think their choices
or they may not be able to even make their own decisions; the children will have no confidence
in themselves or their abilities. It is important for parents to remember that life is all about
mistakes and when children are young like this, let them make small mistakes; being a parent is a
job of guidance.
Growing up my parents have always instilled in me self independence. I was always able
to do what I pleased as long as it did not cause harm to my sister, my parents, or myself. I was
allowed to pick out my own clothes from the time that I could talk; sometimes I went to school
with a blue shirt and purple pants. My parents never cared just as long as I was in school,

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homework finished, and I was good in class; those are the only things that mattered. In doing
that simple matter I learned very quickly that looks did not matter. With just the simple task of
letting me pick out my own clothes my parents allowed me to branch out and learn things on my
own. I always knew that if I needed help or advice with anything I could go to them but I also
learned to take care of things myself. I learned that is it almost always more pleasing to do
things myself then have others do them for me.

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Stage 3- Initiative vs. Guilt

The third stage of Eriksons stages is Initiative vs. Guilt, which takes place from three
years of age to five. This is when children begin asserting control and power over their
environment. This stage leads to the child feeling a sense of initiative and purpose. We also learn
this stage is when children who take over or show too much dominance experience disapproval,
which leads them to feeling guilt. In this stage of development children are interacting with
peers on a regular basis, during preschool, daycare, or regular school at this point. They are
beginning to play with others and do group work and they are learning appropriate behaviors of
play and dealing with other children. Children will begin to try and control their environment by
planning activities, facing challenges on their own, and accomplishing small tasks (McLeod,
2008). Children also start to use their imaginations more in this stage, and they should be
encouraged to use their freedoms for play. A positive outcome to this stage is when children start
to be more independent of their parents, thinking for themselves and do things on their own.
They are also learning how to interact appropriately with others their age; these are vital skills
needed as building blocks for the rest of their social development. Negative outcomes to this
stage occur when parents are too controlling, do not give children freedom to explore, and
discourage independence. Children begin to feel guilt and can become overly dependent on
others.
I remember that when I was younger my parents encouraged me to figure things out for
myself. I was a very independent child and always liked to do things myself. I hated it when
others tried to help me with things like putting up my toys; I always just liked to be left alone to
do whatever it was I was told to do. I feel like this stage is why I am now so independent. Even
as a small child I liked to figure things out on my own and I enjoyed being by myself. My

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parents would leave me alone and not bother me if I was doing my own thing, which I really
enjoyed. Also when I was younger, I had an imagery friend for a few years, her name was Cece.
Cece only was around when I was truly board, like when I had babysitters, but for the most part I
always liked to do things on my own and be left alone. I am sure I came out of this stage with a
good sense of initiative.

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Stage 4- Industry vs. Inferiority

Eriksons fourth stage of his psychosocial developments is Industry vs. Inferiority. This
stage picks up at ages six through eleven. Through social interactions children begin to develop
a sense of pride in their accomplishments and abilities. In this stage we notice children
completing more serious, hard tasks, striving to master new tasks. This stage is also very
important for self- confidence. Children strive for praise; they want what they are doing to be
noticed. If they are doing something right they want to know if they are so they can continue to
do it. The most important overall even in this stage is school, and children begin to cope with
new social and academic demands. Success leads to a sense of competence and industry, but
failure results in feelings of inferiority (McLeod, 2008).
When I first stated school I was diagnosed with dyslexia, which is a learning disability
dealing with reading. I had the hardest time when it came to reading and understanding words. I
remember being so embarrassed in grade school for my disability; I almost had to repeat the
second grade because it was so behind in school. I remember that instead of being encouraged or
praised for the work I did right, I was usually scolded for the work that was done incorrectly.
Finally I had a teacher that knew how to correctly handle a child with dyslexia, and she helped
me so much more than any of my other teachers could have. She actually encouraged me and
told me she believed in me, which was something that I will never forget. She pushed me to do
better; to sound out words I did not know and to spell words correctly. With her behind me I
brought my grades up and was able to move on to the next grade. She also brought me up to
level with the other students in my classroom so I was not behind anymore. Without her behind
me I do not know where I would be today when it comes to my education. Even with difficulties

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through during this stage, I believe I came out with a good sense of industry and a good work
ethic.

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Stage 5- Identity vs. Role Confusion

The fifth stage to Eriksons psychosocial development is Identity vs. Role Confusion; this
stage starts to take place at the age 12 and ends at 18. In this stage teens need to develop a sense
of self and personal identity. The transition from childhood to adulthood is very important, and
peers play a huge role. Teens who are able to withstand peer pressure and develop strong
personal values will ultimately build a positive identity. However, when a teen buckles
constantly under peer influence, doing things he/she knows to be inappropriate or wrong,
confusion results. In this stage teens are also becoming even more independent, and beginning
to look toward their futures. Teens are learning about the roles they will occupy as an adult, and
often confusing about how they fit into a society (McLeod, 2008). The teens begin to look for a
sense of self; they may experiment with different roles, behaviors, or attitudes. This stage is
when the rebellion against parents and teachers takes place in order to find a place where they
fit in. Teens will start to pick their peers over their parents or guardians and they start to push
boundaries. For those who receive proper encouragement through their time of exploration, a
strong sense of self and a deep feeling of independence will be the result (McLeod, 2008). The
teens that are not properly encouraged will remain unsure of their own beliefs and they will
become confused about themselves and their futures.
When I was growing up my parents always encouraged me to do what I wanted within
their own reasoning. If I wanted to stay with friends I could, I never had to ask I just had to tell
my parents where I was and who I was with. They never objected to anything I did just as long
as I agreed to tell them who I was with. In doing this I felt like I could trust my parents and I
never felt the need to lie to them. If they ever said no, but they hardly ever had to, I knew that
they were only looking out for me. I was never a rebellious child; I just liked to do things on my

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own and my parents left me to do my own bidding. I hated and still hate to this day to ask for
help. I prefer to do things on my own. I feel like that is part of the reason I never felt like I had
to rebel against my parents. They always let me be me, I think part of reason was that they were
always busy with their own agendas to worry too much about mine, but that never bothered me
too much. I left this stage with a good positive identity.

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Stage 6- Intimacy vs. Isolation

Eriksons sixth stage of his psychosocial development theory is Intimacy vs. Isolation.
This stage takes place from approximately 19 through 40 years of age. This stage focuses around
on forming intimate, living relationships with other people. During this stage we begin to share
ourselves more intimately with others. We start to explore relationships leading toward longerterm commitments with individuals other than family members (McLeod, 2008). When
individuals have a clear sense of self then it is easier for them to form intimate relationships with
others, whether it is on a friendship level or a sexual level. Have you ever heard the phrase,
You cannot love anyone else if you do not love yourself first? This is a great explain of selflove. If an individual has a lower sense of self- esteem them he/she is more likely to be unable to
build long-term relationships with others, bexoming more isolated. Success in this stage can lead
to comfortable, close, intimate relationships and a sense of commitment, safety, care, and love.
Failure in this stage can lead to fearing commitment, avoiding intimacy, and feels of loneliness,
isolation, and depression (McLeod, 2008).
Even though I am not fully through this stage I feel as though I have a good sense of selfworth and love for others. I have intimate relationships with others outside my family and I do
not see why this will not continue throughout the rest of my life. I am in a committed
relationship with a young man whom I plan to marry, I have friends who I view as siblings, and I
have unrelated individuals in my life that I love very much. I have never been in a relationship
before the one I am in now but we have been together for almost two years. I am not afraid of
commitment. I have also never felt isolated from people; I have always been able to find ways to
relate to others even if I do not consider them friends. I have always been able to make

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acquaintances very easily. I am doing well now in this stage, I do not see why I cannot carry this
on for the remainder of my life or this stage.

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Stage 7- Generativity vs. Stagnation

Stage seven of Eriksons theory is Generativity vs. Stagnation. This stage takes place at
around the ages of 40 to 65, which it mid adulthood. In this stage adults have established their
careers, have probably had their children and/or settled down, and developed a sense of being
part of the bigger picture (McLeod, 2008). In this stage individuals feel like they want to give
back to their society by having children and raising them, and/or maintaining a successful career.
They want to make their mark on the world, which involves caring for others, creating things,
and accomplishing things that make their world a better place. With being productive at work
and becoming involved in the communitys activities and organizations, they feel like they are
giving back; in doing this they feel useful. Individuals are striving to create or nurture things that
will outlast themselves. Contributing to society and doing things that will benefit the future
generations is very important to them in this stage. Success in this stage can lead to feelings of
usefulness, accomplishment, and generativity. Adults who fail to really grow up, are unable to
hold down a job, and cannot think of anyone but themselves are unsuccessful in this stage, which
leads to feelings of stagnation (McLeod, 2008).
At this stage in my life I fully believe that I will already have established myself; I would
have already had my (three) children, hope to be in my dream career, and contributing positively
to my community. I do not see why I would not still be married at this age for at least 20 years,
hopefully in between that time I would have had my children, and be comfortable in my teaching
career. I have always wanted to have children and adopt as well, and I have been fortunate to
find the man I want to marry and he believes the same things I do. I love the feeling of helping
people and I believe if I am involved with the community and schools that I will be living in and
sending my children to that I will feel accomplished and satisfied.

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Stage 8- Ego Integrity vs. Despair

The eighth and final stage is Ego Integrity vs. Despair, which starts at the age of 65 and
goes until the time of death. In this stage, older adults will look back on their lives with either
fulfillment or remorse (McLeod, 2008). A lot of reflection takes place in this stage in life. For
those individuals who believed they have lived a fulfilling life, full of accomplishments and joy,
they develop a sense of satisfaction and integrity (McLeod, 2008). The older adults who are
happy and fulfilled in this stage do not usually fear death, they see it as a natural part of life. A
negative outcome in this stage is when individuals reflect back on a life full of regrets and time
wasted, forcing them to live in despair. These adults tend to fear death, believing they have
simply wasted their lives (McLeod, 2008).
When I am this age I hope I can look back and believe I lived a good life. I have always
been a go-getter and I hope that I will remain that way. I have dreams, hopes, and aspirations
to fulfill and I hope I can push myself to reach those in my future. I want to be able to look back
on my life and think that I did a good job raising my children, taking care of my farm, being a
good wife, and a successful schoolteacher. I want to give back to a community that took me in
as one of their own, and I want to help. We all have regrets to some degree or another, but I hope
I will not have any major regrets when I am older. If I stay on the path I am now I believe I will
accomplish feelings of achievement.

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Conclusion
As you have seen throughout this paper, each of Eriksons stages presents the difficult
social experiences humans face as they develop through thinking, learning, and being adaptive
individuals. Each of these stages explains milestones that human beings should reach in their
lifespan. To overcome each stage an individuals personality must adapted and evolve to the new
situation. I find that most of the milestones in the stages I have reached. I have learned a lot
about others and myself through this project. Even though I do not know exactly what my future
holds, now because of this project I have an idea.
This project also has helped me discovered and realize that children- the future children I
will both have as my own, and those who I will teach in my classroom- will go through these
same stages of growth. I now have a better understanding of these stages of development and
how I can help children come out with positive virtues.

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References
McLeod, S. (2008). Development psychology. SimpleyPsychology. Retrieved from
http://www.simplypsychology.org/Erik-Erikson.html
Teresa M. McDevitt, J. E. (2013). Erikson's Thoery of Psychosocial Development. In J.
E. Teresa M. McDevitt, Child Development and Education (pp. 418-419). Boston: Pearson.